Alberta’s sage grouse population has grown by 38 birds thanks to a recent translocation from Montana

Sage Grouse released in Southern Alberta by Alberta Environment & Parks biologistPhoto by Michael Short

The transfer involved a team of biologists from Alberta Environment and Parks, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. The birds were captured in Montana and have been released at three mating sites in southeastern Alberta.

Joel Nicholson is a species-at-risk biologist with Alberta Environment and Parks. He is my special guest on this week’s podcast.

Podcast Interview with Joel Nicholson

Sage-grouse are an endangered species in Alberta and require the help of a number of conservation organizations. The Alberta Conservation Association, Alberta Fish and Game Association, industry partners and land-owners are working together to ensure sage grouse will have an opportunity to establish a foothold in Alberta.

There are only three breeding sites remaining in Alberta. Removing buildings, trees and power poles will help protect new brood stock from predation.

Tentative first steps of a sage grouse hen as she takes in her new Alberta home.